It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Roger Bealing, former Honorary Secretary and Vice President of Clifton Rugby. Roger peacefully departed this world at home on Thursday, 1st June. His loss will be felt profoundly by the members, players, supporters, sponsors, and friends of Clifton Rugby, as Roger was a pillar of reliability and dependability.

Roger dedicated an incredible 26 years of service as Club Honorary Secretary before stepping back in 2022. Prior to that, he spent two years supporting the Club's Junior section. In recognition of his remarkable contributions, he was appointed as Vice President in 2007.

I had the privilege of first crossing paths with Roger many years ago when my involvement in the Club's administration began. Even then, it was evident that individuals like Roger were essential. His knowledge of the Club, its history, procedures, and unique idiosyncrasies was encyclopaedic.

Whenever new club officers, including myself, found ourselves in need, Roger was the one we turned to. He had an uncanny ability to answer seemingly simple but deceptively challenging questions like, "What's the next step?" and "How do we achieve that?" Roger understood that a strong grasp of procedures and rules could provide the freedom and opportunity to effect positive change.

Roger's memory of all things related to the club was astounding. He could even pinpoint the dusty old box buried in a deep, forgotten cupboard that likely contained minutes from a committee meeting held in the 1990s. And, to our amusement, he could recall editing out the occasional expletive from those minutes.

Sharing a glass of wine with Roger after a match, one could sense his unwavering dedication to what the rugby club meant to him and how it should matter to others. Conversations with him provided invaluable insights into the Club's unwritten history.

Beyond rugby, Roger channelled his passion toward supporting the railways and their ability to better serve communities. Recently, he made a compelling presentation to the West of England Combined Authority about Ashton Gate station, emphasizing the positive impact that investments could have on the local area. Roger was the type of person you wanted on your team to sustain energy and focus during challenging times.

Amidst all his endeavours, it is easy to overlook the health challenges Roger faced. In 2013, he required a kidney transplant, which his wife Elaine selflessly donated. Over the past few years, Roger underwent various surgeries for complications, yet he never let anyone down and always followed through on his commitments.

A few years ago, Roger and Elaine were meant to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary, but the pandemic prevented that joyous occasion. Without a doubt, it would have been a remarkable celebration to remember.

Roger, I will deeply miss you, and I will forever cherish the invaluable lessons you imparted: Stay true, be guided by rules and history, and always remember the reasons that drive us.

A funeral service to honour Roger's life will take place on Thursday, 29th June, at South Bristol Crematorium, starting at 1:30pm. Details regarding a gathering after the service will be announced soon.

(P.S. Roger, we eventually managed to get that stubborn postcode changed!)

Wyn Tingley

South Bristol Crematorium - Bridgwater Road, Bedminster Down, Bristol, BS13 7AS